What you will do

choose an idea, script or book to turn into a film, play, video, radio show or television programme

create, submit and pitch proposals for productions

secure finance and manage the production budget

hire, guide and instruct artists and other staff

oversee the production and work closely with the creative team

supervise marketing and distribution

negotiate and liaise with corporate clients.

Skills and knowledge

Media producers need to have:

skill in assessing scripts, books, plays, music and other media

a thorough understanding of the industry they are working in, locally and globally, and the processes that go into creating productions

business and marketing skills, including the ability to create contracts.

Working conditions

Media producers:

may work long and irregular hours including weekends and evenings

work in offices, film and television studios, recording studios and rehearsal rooms, and on location

may travel locally or internationally for productions.

What's the job really like?

Graham Elliott

Producer

Graham Elliott started his career as an editor before becoming a producer and opening his own production company, Picture Talk, in 1990.

Lots of variety

“The variety of the work I do is one of the best things about being a producer. I work with lots of different people and in different environments all the time, so that’s what I like most.”

The key to making sure everything runs smoothly

“Organising, planning and budgeting is a big part of being a producer. As well as producing, I often direct, so I’ve got to think of the creative side of production as well as make sure everything runs smoothly on the day.”

Important to know the production process

“As a producer you’ve got to have a really good understanding of all the different areas of production.

“For example, if you’re asking the crew on a shoot to suddenly change the set and do this other shot that you or the director want, then you have to know if it’s possible or not. It’s the same with all the other areas of production as well.”

Entry requirements

There are no specific requirements to become a media producer. However, a tertiary qualification in media production, such as a Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications, may be useful.

It is essential for media producers to have strong industry knowledge as well as experience in the type of productions they want to produce.

Self-employed media producers also need business experience.

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a media producer. However, accounting, media studies, digital technologies, te reo Māori, design and visual communication, music, dance, and drama are useful.

Personal requirements

Media producers need to be:

excellent at problem solving

extremely well organised, with good planning skills

strong communicators and negotiators

good at creating and maintaining professional and personal relationships

good at managing and motivating people

motivated and good at setting goals

resilient and persistent

able to work well under pressure.

Organising, planning and budgeting is a big part of being a producer.

Graham Elliott

Producer

Useful experience

Useful experience for media producers includes:

work in other areas of film, television, stage or music production or direction

What are the chances of getting a job?

Chances of getting a job as a media producer are poor as the entertainment industry in New Zealand is small and there are many graduates with suitable qualifications. Most people enter the industry through an entry-level role such as production assistant.

Essential to build a portfolio

It is essential for media producers to demonstrate their experience and ability with a strong portfolio of previous work on, for example, short films, plays and web series. Such work provides opportunities to develop skills and gain exposure, but is often unpaid.

Networking is key

The best way to enter the industry is to contact employers directly and widen your networks by attending industry functions and conferences.

Most film and television production work is centred in Auckland and Wellington.

Types of work varied

Media producers may work independently, for production companies and studios, or for advertising agencies.